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Post Show Thoughts: Focusing on VP's

This week, more attention was given to the race's Vice Presidential candidates, than their running mates. Comments by Vice President Joe Biden about Mitt Romney wanting to put people in "chains" struck a chord racially as members of both parties called foul.

This morning on Meet the Press, Virginia Governor Bob McDonnell (R) piled on, calling Biden's statement an "incendiary, over-the-top remark," adding that the general tone of the president's campaign is "way beneath the dignity of the American people."

Maryland's Democratic Governor Martin O'Malley admitted that the Vice President made an "indelicate choice of words," but he defended Biden, saying there is "not a racist bone" in his body.

On the Republican ticket, the political world continues to focus on Mitt Romney's running mate, Rep. Paul Ryan (R-WI). Republicans, including Tea Party-backed nominee for U.S. Senate from Texas Ted Cruz (who was a guest on our roundtable) applaud Romney's choice of Ryan and hope that it will make the campaign one based on issues.

"If this presidential race focuses on issues... Republicans win. If it's a battle of personalities, Republicans will lose," Cruz said.

You can watch the entire program on our website including a look at the NBC News Decision 2012 'Road to 270' Battleground Map. Chuck Todd takes us through the states most likely to decide the race in November. (Hint: Keep an eye on Florida)

Also make sure to watch our PRESS Pass conversation with former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani on the tone of campaign, and his unique take on the Vice President's remarks.

We'll be back next week, live from Tampa, Florida - the home of 2012 Republican National Convention.